Callousness in the face of human tragedy

The Portland Press Herald accused Governor Paul LePage of inciting panic and fear for his ridiculous and unconstitutional declaration that he would prevent Maine from accepting Syrian refugees. Senate minority leader Justin Alfond called it “morally repugnant.”

What it brings to mind for me is the story of one refugee girl. You may have read it too. I was touched by the incredible humanity she showed in the face of terrible fear as her family was forced from their home by one of the most awful groups of violent thugs in human history.

Instead, she died at Bergen-Belsen concentration camp at the age of 15. Her diary has sold more than 75 million copies.

After every genocide and mass murder and failure of the international community to save innocent lives we say never again, but it always does happen again. It’s happening right now.

If you’ve ever looked back in history and wondered how people in the darkest moments of our past could be so callous in the face of human tragedy, you should be sure to read today’s press releases from LePage and Rep. Bruce Poliquin. Now’s your opportunity to study the phenomenon up close.

About Mike Tipping

Mike is Maine's longest-writing political blogger and explores state politics and policy with a focus on analysis and explanation. He works at the Maine People's Alliance and Maine People's Resource Center.
View all posts by Mike Tipping →

Post navigation

Mike Tipping

Mike is Maine's longest-writing political blogger and explores state politics and policy with a focus on analysis and explanation. He works at the Maine People's Alliance and Maine People's Resource Center.